Bachelor of Science (Technology)
The Bachelor of Science (Technology) (BSc(Tech)) was the first degree of its kind in New Zealand and offers a unique approach to study. The BSc(Tech) is a flexible, job-oriented degree, which provides you with the necessary practical experience to bridge the gap between study and the workplace.
Move into the workplace with a BSc(Tech) from Waikato and you’ll find it looks familiar. That’s because you will already have spent 12 months of your degree gaining work experience and being paid for your efforts. Your first stint in the field will be for three months in your second year, followed by another nine months in your third year.
During your practical experience, you will build connections with potential employers that will pay off when it’s time to look for a job. Your hands-on experience will add credibility in your interviews.
You will be doing a flexible degree that gives you time to think about where you want to focus your attention. The BSc(Tech) includes management papers as well as science and technology papers so you’ll have a good understanding of the business of science by the time you graduate.
BSc(Tech) Benefits
- Large practical component and small laboratory classes in most subjects.
- Internationally recognised degree taught by expert staff.
- Paid work placements to suit your interests.
- 100% of graduates actively seeking employment find it within six months of graduating.
Majors
- Animal Behaviour
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Sciences
- Electronics
- Environmental Planning
- Environmental Sciences
- Materials and Processing
- Physics
A second major can also be selected from the majors offered by the Faculty of Science & Engineering and other Faculties and Schools of Studies. Please consult with your Faculty or School of Studies to see how this can fit into your programme.
BSc(Tech) Career Opportunities
- Biotechnologist
- Computer Network Administrator
- Conservation Officer
- Exploration Geologist
- Forensic Technician
- Laboratory Technologist
- Quality Assurance Manager
- Research Assistant
- Software Developer
- Systems Analyst
Specialisations
Within the BSc(Tech) you may choose to specialise in:
Agribusiness
The Agribusiness specialisation introduces agribusiness in New Zealand and internationally, sustainable agricultural systems, and international marketing for this industry. This specialisation complements a number of majors in which a knowledge of the particular issues confronting agribusiness enterprises and the sector in general would be an advantage.
Science International
Science International combines a science major with study in Chinese, French, German, Japanese or Spanish. Science graduates who are familiar with the language and customs of other countries are of particular value to export-oriented industries.
Te Pūtaiao me ngā Take Māori (Science and Te Reo)
There is a fast-growing need for science graduates who are also fluent Māori language speakers. This specialisation enables students to pursue a science degree in a major subject while extending their knowledge of Māori language and culture.
Within the Biological Sciences major you may choose to specialise in: Restoration Ecology.
Within the Environmental Sciences major you may choose to specialise in: Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Modelling, Land and Freshwater Environments, or Marine Sciences.
Practical Experience
A total of 12 months’ work experience is a component of this degree. The Cooperative Education Unit actively seeks and oversees this placement, ensuring the quality and relevance of your work experience.
Entry Requirements
You will be eligible to apply for this degree if you have University Entrance and meet any additional requirements for the qualification.All other applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Some papers have specific entry requirements and if you do not have the required background you may be directed to take certain papers in your first year of study.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences offers challenge exams that give outstanding students credit for 100 level papers in Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics. By passing the exams, high-achieving students can be given direct access to some 200 level papers.
Scholarships
Science Admission Scholarships, Computer Science Scholarship, The Brian Perry Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship, The Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship.
For more information, visit www.waikato.ac.nz/scholarships
Degree Structure
4 years - 480 points
It is recommended that students include 100 level prerequisites for any compulsory papers in their chosen major(s) in the first year of their programme of study.
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 Points | 120 Points | 120 Points | 120 Points |
| Major | Science Papers | Elective Papers | Management Papers |
| Compulsory Papers | |||
| 100* LEVEL | 200 LEVEL | 300 LEVEL | 200/300* LEVEL |
| 100* LEVEL | 200 LEVEL | 300 LEVEL | 200/300 LEVEL |
| 100* LEVEL | 200 LEVEL | 300 LEVEL | |
| 100* LEVEL | 200* LEVEL | 300* LEVEL | |
| 100* LEVEL | 200 LEVEL | 200/300* LEVEL | |
| 100* LEVEL | 200^ LEVEL | 300^ LEVEL | |
| 100* LEVEL | |||
| 100 LEVEL | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 |
| SCIE279 Work Placement Preparation |
SCIE379 Work Placement Reflection |
373 Work Placement | |
| 371 Work Placement |
372 Work Placement |



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